Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Recent IELTS Exams (Canada & India) · 2026-09-16

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that old buildings, such as town halls and art galleries, should be restored, even though this can be costly. Others argue that governments should replace them with new, modern buildings.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 7.5)

There is ongoing debate about whether governments should preserve historic buildings or replace them with modern structures. While restoring old buildings can be costly, I believe that those with significant historical or cultural value should generally be preserved.

On the one hand, replacing old buildings can be more practical and economical. Many historic structures were not designed to meet modern requirements, such as accessibility, energy efficiency, safety standards and advanced technology. Constructing new facilities can therefore provide safer and more functional spaces for public use. Moreover, modern buildings can accommodate larger numbers of people and may require less maintenance in the long term. For example, an outdated town hall could be replaced by an energy-efficient building containing modern offices, meeting rooms and public services. This would enable governments to use public funds more efficiently.

On the other hand, historic buildings often represent a community’s identity and cultural heritage. Although restoration can require substantial investment, preserving these structures allows future generations to appreciate their architectural and historical significance. Furthermore, attractive old buildings can encourage tourism and generate income for nearby restaurants, shops and hotels. However, not every old structure deserves protection simply because of its age. Buildings that have little historical importance or are structurally unsafe may reasonably be demolished. Nevertheless, governments should carefully assess their cultural value before making such decisions.

In my view, a balanced approach is the most appropriate. Governments should restore buildings that have genuine historical, architectural or cultural significance, while replacing those that are unsafe or no longer suitable for public needs. Therefore, modernization should not automatically mean destroying the past. By combining careful preservation with sensible development, authorities can provide effective public facilities while protecting the heritage that gives communities their distinctive character.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both views—the economic and practical benefits of modern buildings versus the cultural and identity value of historic ones—and clearly presents the writer's own opinion throughout. The position is well-developed, with relevant supporting ideas and examples, such as mentioning outdated town halls, energy-efficient offices, tourism, and community identity. The arguments are extended logically without tangential diversions, meeting the criteria for a high band. There is a clear progression of thought from the introduction through the body paragraphs to a well-considered conclusion that synthesizes a balanced approach.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

Ideas are logically sequenced, and the essay demonstrates a clear, coherent overall progression. Paragraphing is used effectively and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the topic. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Moreover', and 'Nevertheless' are managed very well to guide the reader through the argumentation without feeling overly mechanical. Referencing and substitution are handled smoothly, ensuring that the relationships between ideas remain transparent and easy to follow throughout the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The writer demonstrates a wide and flexible lexical resource suitable for an academic or formal general training discussion. Less common vocabulary items and collocations are used skillfully, such as 'significant historical or cultural value', 'community's identity', 'substantial investment', and 'sensible development'. Word choice is generally precise, and collocation is natural. There are no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication, reflecting a high level of control over vocabulary.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses used accurately and flexibly (e.g., 'While restoring old buildings can be costly, I believe that those with significant historical or cultural value should generally be preserved.'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and control over punctuation and grammar is strong. Only occasional, minor imperfections might appear under closer inspection, but these do not detract from the overall clarity and sophisticated flow of the writing.

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